The defender, who was not on contract at the Knitters, was regarded as one of the top centre-halves in the league by manager Carl Heggs and his departure is a big disappointment to the club and the United boss.

Heggs said: “He became a better player after joining us. We coached him and spent time chatting to him, helping him believe in himself more. He was ready to be a top player and now we lose him.”

Heggs, who missed the Halifax loss, takes his men to Gloucester City tomorrow and he expects to have one or two new faces in his line-up.

“I’m looking for a replacement for Ben, plus an experienced central midfielder, as they are positions where we need strengthening.”